Quicksilver Passion (107 page)

Silver looked around. The office with its gaudy Victorian furnishings and big, black safe behind the desk reminded her of the Velvet Kitten.
I would not be expected to mix with the other employees, would I?”

Of course not! I’m looking for a person who can teach my daughter all the proper things to do. I never had those opportunities myself. Later I’d like to send Waanibe back east to school. Maybe she’ll marry into society and they need never know how her fortune was made.”

It’s commendable that you’re so ambitious for your child,” Silver said.
I hope your husband shares your—”

I am not married,” the Duchess cut her off icily.
Whatever I have, whatever I give my child, I did all alone, with no help from anyone, least of all her father.”

Silver wasn’t quite sure what to say, although she knew the feeling. Another saloon girl who had succumbed to a man’s promises.
Here but for the grace of God...

Miss Jones, you have an Eastern accent. I assume you aren’t from this area originally?”

She wasn’t about to tell where she was from. The Duchess must have little experience if she thought an Illinois accent sounded
Eastern.”
I suppose you could call my former home
Eastern.’”

The Duchess looked impressed.
A real Eastern governess for Waanibe. Can you take her in hand, teach her about etiquette and being a lady, all the things she needs to know if she is to move up in the world?”

I’ll do my best,” Silver answered truthfully. What she knew of etiquette and proper manners, she had learned while she lived in Elmer Neeley’s imposing home.
I can also teach her some of the basics like reading.”